While Saelar secured the support of outlying provinces, the Empress made her countermove. In the heart of the capital, she summoned the feared knight-commander of her imperial guard:
Sir Kaedric Marraven, known as The Wolf of Velmor, a ruthless but loyal noble knight whose sword had quelled dozens of uprisings.
> "Find the bastard prince," the Empress said, her voice like venom. "Cut his flame before it consumes us all."
Kaedric accepted with a cold nod and began his hunt.
---
Back in Valarcrest, Saelar convened a strategy session with his inner circle. Bramir laid out troop movements, while Myrcella reported on diplomatic progress. Alicent lounged nearby, sipping wine.
> "Our reach has spread far," Bramir said. "But word has it that The Wolf rides. We should delay further offensives."
> "No," Saelar replied, his eyes narrowing. "Let Kaedric come. We need a visible victory—a message to the people that the throne can bleed."
He ordered the liberation of the fortress city of Kelvorn, which had fallen under imperial martial law and heavy taxation. The people there were starving, and rebellion simmered beneath the surface.
> "We strike from within," Saelar commanded. "Alicent, infiltrate. Myrcella, coordinate the nobles inside. When the gates open, we march."
He walked to the window of the war room, staring into the dusk.
> "Let the Empire watch as the people rise."